Surge In Self-Represented Homeowners In Foreclosure Actions Forcing Courts To Examine Non-Default Related Legal Issues

In Miami, Florida, msnbc.com reports:

• [Luis M]olina, a former car salesman and deli owner whose formal education ended with a diploma from Teaneck High School in New Jersey, is among a growing number of American homeowners representing themselves as what are called "pro se" — a Latin phrase meaning “for oneself” — litigants in foreclosure proceedings.

• There’s no way to know how many pro se foreclosure cases are currently moving through U.S. courts, but anecdotal accounts from lawyers and others indicate the number is growing along with the nation’s mortgage crisis, which has reached unprecedented proportions.

• Along with trained and licensed attorneys, pro se litigants are forcing courts to look at myriad foreclosure issues that go far beyond whether or not a loan is being properly repaid, including allegations of predatory lending practices and the fundamental question of who actually has the right to foreclose.

For the story, see The home you save could be your own (In foreclosure crisis, more Americans representing themselves in court). KappaMtgDocsMissing